(Video) Liverpool supporters might have overlooked a moment of brilliance from Alisson right before Szoboszlai’s free kick.
Although it largely flew under the radar, Alisson Becker made a clever and crucial contribution to Liverpool’s winning goal last weekend.
The Reds secured a 1-0 victory over Arsenal thanks to a sensational 83rd-minute free kick from Dominik Szoboszlai – a strike hailed as “world-class” by Gary Neville and one that left Taylor Twellman “amazed.” While Szoboszlai deservedly received the spotlight for his stunning goal, Liverpool’s goalkeeper also played a key part with a moment of sharp thinking.
What exactly did Alisson do before the free kick?
A video shared by Liverpool fan @FloAnfield on X, captured from the Anfield Road End, revealed Alisson’s smart intervention just before the free kick. The footage shows the Brazilian goalkeeper gesturing to Florian Wirtz and Cody Gakpo—who were positioned in line with Arsenal’s wall—to shift slightly to their right. This subtle adjustment obstructed the view of Arsenal keeper David Raya.
Although Raya nearly reached the ball, the slight delay in his reaction may have been enough to make the difference.
A quiet masterstroke from Alisson
While Szoboszlai’s strike was unquestionably brilliant, Alisson’s quick thinking deserves recognition. His decision to direct Wirtz and Gakpo to block Raya’s sightline reflects deep tactical awareness and experience—traits developed from years of facing set pieces at the highest level.
Last weekend’s game also marked Alisson’s first clean sheet of the season after conceding twice in each of his previous three appearances. Though Arsenal offered limited threats at Anfield, the Brazilian stepped up when needed, including making solid saves from Noni Madueke in both halves.
Still, his smartest move may have been the unseen assist: positioning his teammates to give Raya just enough trouble to help ensure Szoboszlai’s free kick hit the back of the net—yet another example of why Alisson is often regarded as the best goalkeeper in the world.
